Eddie "Ed" W. Trueblood

Eddie “Ed” W. Trueblood, aged 75, peacefully passed away on Monday, July 1, 2024, from congestive heart failure. He was born on August 10, 1948, in Wichita, KS, to Clarence and Marie Trueblood. After graduating from East High School, Ed enlisted in the Army, serving with honor during the Vietnam War and earning the Purple Heart for his bravery in combat. His dedication to his country was a source of great pride throughout his life. Ed was skilled as a sheet metal mechanic and dedicated much of his career to working as an HVAC technician. He was employed by Fahnestock Heating and Air for over 30 years before retiring with the City of Wichita. Ed was known for his strong work ethic, often juggling multiple jobs when necessary. He was a provider for his family and always found a way to ensure needs were met. His daughter and nephews have many fond memories of early morning paper routes where he shared stories and advice. Ed loved the quiet and could often be found in a lawn chair, sipping a drink, and watching the scenery. He loved watching storms roll in and was always the last one to the basement during a tornado warning. Ed had a lifelong passion for cars, with sports cars being his favorite. Whether driving Austin Healeys or Mazda Miatas, he delighted in the thrill of an open road with the top down. He frequently traded vehicles, finding joy in the search, and spent many Sundays with his family browsing car lots, attending car shows, or going on joy rides together. Ed married Jane Gegen in 1974, and together they welcomed their beloved daughter, Melissa. Though their marriage ended, Ed and Jane remained devoted to raising Melissa together. Ed found his soulmate, Neila while working one of his second jobs. It was love at first sight, and they were married in 1993. Neila, originally from Maracaibo, Venezuela, brought a vibrant culture into Ed's life. He embraced his Venezuelan family, listening to music of maracas and cuatros, eating traditional dishes like arepas and yacas (with barbecue sauce of course), and taking Neila dancing -almost loving it as much as she does. Ed quickly adapted to the concept of "Venezuelan time," finding humor in the difference between it and "real" time. When Ed suffered a major stroke in 2012, Neila stood by his side and took wonderful care of him for the next 12 years. Ed loved Neila unconditionally, and it was a testament to those around them. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Marie (Bradley) Trueblood. He is survived by his wife, Neila Trueblood (Lleras); daughter, Melissa (Jeremy) Lezniak; and grandchildren, Jacob, Katie, Mary, and James Lezniak. The funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 15th at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Inurnment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial has been established with: Traditions Hospice, 3221 N. Toben Street, #200, Wichita, KS 67226. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.